An interview with the karting ace Avdumber Hede

Avdumber Hede is Goa's face of karting. He is now 22 years old and here's what he had to say to eGoa

Here's Avdumber Hede sharing his karting insights with Antonio Furtado

How and when did you start karting?

Avdumber: I started go-karting seven years back. It happened when my friend told me about the car racing happening in Nuvem n asked me to go n visit Goa kart racing track. From the time I was a kid I had this craze about cars. Every time my dad saw me upset he knew the best way to cheer me up was by gifting me a toy car. I always wanted to drive but cause of the stupid Indian rules n regulations it was not possible till I turned 18. The best way to get rid of my frustration was to get on the race track and that's how I reached the track. In the start I was too scared to get into the kart. But now I don wan to get out of the kart.

Can you tell us a brief about achievements please?

Avdumber: My first race took place four days after I started karting. It was the all Goa carnival race. I won the race even though I was rookie n raced with the best Goan racers. The second race was the all India JK tyre national karting championship, Goa was one of the regional rounds. I won that race. I took part in the junior category. With that win I was promoted and sent to Delhi for the final event, where I started in 8th position but I did not lose my focus and I finished second all India national title. From there I won lots of events all in senior category. The major events I won have been the 2006-07 and 2007-08 all India second place in M.R.F national karting championship.

What have been the hardships you have faced?

Avdumber: Racing is an expensive sport; you need lots money to keep you going. This is always been my major issue in my racing career. My dad always stayed by my side but as my racing career progressed, it got more and more expensive and then it was difficult to keep it going. I went to Goa government to ask for support but they just promised a lot and never did what they said. I guess that's why we are so far behind because there is lot of talent here but there's no one to help them.

What are your comments on karting as a career?

Avdumber: Karting as of now is not a sport to take up as a career. You need sponsorships in this expensive sport to make it your living. You need big companies to get involved in this sport then only I think there will be a future in racing.

Do you have any advice for young karters?

Avdumber: Karting is a great sport. If your dream is to get to formula one u got to start with karting as most of the top formula racers started their career with karting. I think if u can handle the money issue I think karting is the best sport anyone can take up as a career. You can see that top racers don't reach formula one because of no sponsorship. But there is a great future as big companies are getting involved and looking out for good talent.

What do you have to say about eGoa?

Avdumber: I think eGoa is the best place where I think you can share everything with the rest of the people of Goa.

Interview by Antonio Furtado

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An interview with Terence Lewis, choreographer from DID

Terence Lewis is a star choreographer from the show Dance India Dance. So heres what he had to say to eGoa about his moves!

What do you know about your Goan connections?

Terence: Well Its a known historic fact that the early Mangalorean Christians were the ones that Fled from Goa due to the Spanish inquisition 300 yrs ago soon after St Francis Xavier death. However over time these Goan settlers who set foot on the Mangalorean water front soon mixed with culture of the Karnatak region and gave birth new to a new breed of Roman Catholics that were the Mangalorean Christians.

When I first visited Goa, I knew this was where I belonged. The life style and attitude of the people makes a huge difference to give Goa its true flavour. It’s relaxed, welcoming, safe and free spirited. The fact that even people from other nations have made Goa their home speaks a lot for its open culture and the tolerant nature it has towards life. I Love Goa and would someday like to settle down here.

Tell us how Dance India Dance (DID) changed your life (if at all)?

Terence: Yes it has as TV literally takes you to every ones living room and one becomes the subject of dinner conversations. It also exposed the public to different styles and raised the level at what dancing should be. I Have gained a lot of respect amongst the masses (the people in the industry know of me any which way) and they recognize me on the street and public places. It’s sometimes embarrassing. I can’t eat vada pav without being stared at. Professionally I’m working with two big directors- Sanjay Leela Bhansali whose next work is titled Guzarish and Ashutosh Gowarikars film titled what’s your rashee.

Tell us a little about your life’s struggle.

Terence: I was born to a middle class family on the 10th of April 1975 and am the 8th child of my parents Remedia and Xavier Lewis from Mumbai. My mum was a seamstress (working from home) and Dad was a worker at Modistone tyres. We were literally given the basics in food clothing and shelter and trained by both my parents to make the best what we had and never to complain. My parents firmly believed that if we had to escape the miseries of living a hand to mouth existence then it would be through being educated and getting white collared jobs that wouldd make us financially stable and garner respect in our community, and hence education was top on that list. You see it was a deep rooted psychological thing with Mom and Dad that all their children be educated as some of their own siblings had treated them shabbily as they were not literate leave only educated and poor. So education along with religion (We had to attend church every day, say the family rosary together and confess our sins every Saturday- it was a set routine) ranked really high.

Discipline for a hard life ahead was ingrained even before we were born as I think we just followed systems that mom and dad set for us and if we did slip up there would be a long lecture given after the rosary was said in front of the whole family and then we would have to go down on our knees and ask for forgiveness to Jesus. This was done after we were thrashed black and blue if we fought amongst ourselves or got bad grades. Dance or Sports was considered frivolous only a luxury for the rich and although they didn’t mind me dancing, it was made clear that if my grades dropped I wouldn’t be allowed to do anything extracurricular. As a kid I had already shown a strong inclination to the performing art- be it theatre, singing or dance and was a fiercely competitive kid so any challenge would make my resolve even stronger. It was my drug.

What about your education?

Terence: Did my 12th grade from St Xaviers college“ a strict Jezuit college and was pursuing microbiology for two years when an entrance exam I had casually given in for hotel management got me a seat in the prestigious Institute in Mumbai and so I switched. Considering it was a diploma program then, my father was insistent that I should do my graduation alongside and so I did distance education and got my degree in Psychology & Sociology as my major and a diploma in Hotel Management after three years. I then did a certificate course in Fitness training from Progressive Fitness USA (they had branches in Mumbai).

Is dance is your profession or hobby? Tell us why.

Terence: At the very onset of my childhood, I began to love the attention I received from my performances. The stage became my home and dance my second language.

The first time I performed I was 6 and after I finished I looked at all the faces that were looking at me and my appetite grew from that day on. I became a stage whore (sorry for that but it’s an original).

I agree that I am truly blessed that I love doing what I do and get paid for it. This is the biggest gift.

what is needed to become a good dancer?

Terence: Sound training from a very good and experienced teacher. Discipline and the right attitude.

what are your future plans?

Terence: I’d like to take one day at a time for all the plans I have. One thing for sure is that I’ve started the Diploma in Dance Scholarship to help dancers in the country get a professional level of training and technique from the best teachers in the world. So that begins this year in September. Auditions are in July-August. Call 26040144 for auditions.

I have already started a trust that helps fund the dance education of aspiring dancers through a 1 year diploma program that helps them with understanding dance and movement at a professional level. However dance still lacks support from parents especially with boys and many parents think it to be a hobby but not a profession. Many good students and extremely talented dancers succumb to the pressure as they are not financially independent and have to walk in their parents’ footsteps. My program is aimed at bringing back the dignity of dance back in the minds and attitude of people and we work hard at making our dancers financial stable and secure.

I wish I could teach Indian contemporary techniques all over the world and share this wonderful knowledge that would help dancers tremendously. Yes I see that in the years to come it will be an important aspect of training for every dancer. Every dancer must to be able to get their certificates as professional. To a certain extent yes, but the movement needs to be so large that the world take notice of it.

We need funding desperately as we have turned down students as we can afford only a few every year to be a part of the scholarship program. . A big rehearsal Space in Mumbai is expensive to maintain and rent out and although we have teachers willing to teach at marginal costs, that costs too Is a good amount every month. At present the professional company that has finished its training do commercial shows and part of the funds we receive goes to support the training program of the scholarship dancers so far. It’s been an uphill struggle to maintain high standards and get the best teachers from all over the world who are willing and believe in us. The program is run under a trust that has been recently granted the status for receiving funds from individuals and international companies. You can email us on tenterence@gmail.com for inquiries. Your support will guarantee that a talented boy or girl does not have to do call centre jobs and other desk jobs

  to survive and can live with their dreams coming true

which is your most memorable performance?

Terence: Choreographing Surkh and performing at the international festivals to an international audience and them appreciating the choreography and the dancers’ technique.

who’s your biggest fan or the craziest thing any fan did for u?

Terence: There are several women actually. One of them called to say that she had proof to show me that I was her Husband in past life after she watched DID and wants to marry me after she divorces her present husband. Still another from London told my manager some very unprintable things about our supposed relationship. We were all laughing at it later but in that moment it was scary, how vehemently some of them argued with wanting to get in touch with me and talk to me and another lady called to say that she wanted to buy me for a night. Very flattering but of course I refused.

Do you have anything to say about PartySoulz's new Venture eGoa?

Terence: Great site for Goa lovers and you could find out some good deals by just the press of a button. User friendly site and has some useful tips for even the first time traveller. Go Goa go!

Interview by Nisha Bhatia, Edited by Aaron Almeida

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An interview with the singing sensation Joanne Fernandez

This week we caught up with Joanne, a young sensation from south Goa

singing her heart out

in her debutant album “Preety Colours”, heres what she has to say to eGoa.

Whats your take on being a young Goan celebrity.

Joanne: I love Goa with all my heart and am proud to simply be a Goan. Being a celebrity is just an add on.

Singing, a passion or a career?

Joanne: Singing has always been my passion from the time I can remember. It allows me to express myself and connect with my creator and his creation. I am blessed to have a family that supported me in making a career out of music.

Do you perform with a group or as a soloist?

Joanne: I am a solo artiste but also freelance with musicians from across the globe. In Goa I have an amazingly talented band which I enjoy working with.

Which band/singers have influenced your personal style

Joanne: A lot of singers have influenced me in different ways over the years. Swapna Abraham,Whitney Houston,Stevie Wonder,Nina Simonne,Richard Bona,Aretha Franklin,George Benson,Dianne Reeves,Ella Fitzgerald,Nat King Cole,Frank Sinatra,Led Zepllin,Sting,Tina Turner, Alanis Morrisette,Yolanda Adams,Missy Elliot etc?.I have an open mind to music and change with time.

How does it feel having released your own album? tell us something about it.?

Joanne: As a child my dreams were only dreams but little did I know that one day they would come true. I had the Vision and God made a provision. All the lyrics are from my personal experience writing love letters to God and more, the melodies came naturally. Since it was my first album I decided to dedicate it to the one who gave me this talent and made everything possible. I featured a lot of musicians which was good inspiration for me and we had fun working together. My Father, Mother, sisters Erica and Andrea also sang the song “Family Tree” as I wanted my loved ones to be a part of this big project. I moved completely in faith and every single detail fell into place.

So what’s next?

Joanne: Learning what ever I can to bring out the best in myself and others. Working on a secular album and I want to make the world dance. Creating new groovy waves of positive energy.

What are your goals as far as music is concerned?

Joanne: I am taking my profession to the next level and work everyday towards my goals. plan to travel, learn from different cultures, share mine, produce quality music and make a mark internationally. My voice is only a medium which is to be used for a much greater purpose beyond self glory.

PartySoulz:

Enlighten us on your best performance and why?

Joanne: I always strive to do better than my last performance because that is how the audience remembers you. so I guess the last performance was my best. also recently sharing the stage with Remo Fernandes was a special experience?we jammed spontaneously and it was magica?.

What are your comments about PartySoulz's new venture eGoa?

Joanne: Keep up the good work!!! You make us Goans proud. God Bless…

‘Pretty Colours’ is available at Vibes, in Margao and Rock & Raaga, Panjim and other leading music stores.

The excerpts have been picked up by: Anne Viegas

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An interview with Viraf Tavadia, a fitness entrepreneur

Viraf Tavadia is part of the Fitness and Wellness industry for 10 years as we pen this. He started as a personal trainer to prominent industrialist and graduated to setting up a first organised Fitness company providing services of Health n Fitness professional to individuals and corporates.

He has also ventured in the spa and wellness industry since the last 4 years, Currently holding a position of Sr. Associate for Spa & Training at Evolve clubs. (Foothills Wellness systems Pvt Ltd)

His Goal: To expand and penetrate into the corporate arena by providing an authentic fitness & wellness solution in today's fast paced corporate culture.

His Specialties:

Specialize in Setting up Spa and wellness centers. (Commercial)

Consultant for Special Population.

Specialize in Gym n Set up and Management. (Corporate & Commercial)

Stress Management Techniques for Corporates.

Here's what Viraf Tavadia has to say, the excerpts have been picked up by Nisha Bhatia

1. Today's youth don't pay attention to their health. Comment.

Today's youth are considerably more conscious of their health than one generation before. But still there is a big gap between being healthy n just wanting to look thin. Youth today look and aspire to be thin not healthy.

2. Being vegetarian is the in thing. Comment.

It's a personal choice.A healthy balanced diet is more important than becoming vegetarian.

3. Monsoons are a boon or a bane for you professionally?

A bit of both. More clients want to work out indoors due to the rains n commuting is a problem for trainers.

4. Please enlighten us a little bout your profession.

Being a consultant in health, Fitness & wellness is a tough job. Exercise is not something that comes naturally to 80% of the people. Its more about being patient and convincing a client to make a change in his/her lifestyle.

5. Half of you is in Goa and rest in Mumbai. Can you compare and contrast the two places? Professionally.

One major difference is the way members look at their fitness objectives. Members in Mumbai are clear and focused with their objective and match it with time based targets. Members in Goa are still on experimental stage inspite of falling into the critically overweight category, members will prefer to go in for a monthly package first and give it a try, see if they like to work out. Failing to realize that they don't have any second options at their stage besides embracing healthy lifestyle habits. 

6. Do you believe that running a gym in Goa is a profit making business?

Yes, definitely the industry is picking up by 5% to 10% every year

7. What is your take on the increasing complains by youth regarding back ache? Analyse causes and remedies.

Its mainly attributed to bad postures and also mostly to the load of the books they carry. Also young kids with underdeveloped muscles are at a higher risk.

8. What is the funda about zero figure? Do you believe in it?

As i mentioned being and looking thin is not an indication of being healthy. Classic examples of FTV models. Have irregular periods, lower immunity, high skin diseases, and other ailments that come with unhealthy pattern of staying thin and malnourished. It is saddening that our Bollywood actresses such as Kareena Kapoor are adopting this concept. Since movies have a huge impact on Indian masses, it has given rise to a lot of myths. Many ladies want to get a zero figure just because their favorite actress or model has it without knowing anything much about it.

9. What are your comments on egoa.in?

It is a very good initiative. Digital marketing n networking model is the best and current trend for the next couple of years to stay. As you know I have purchased a page for my Mumbai-based firm on your website.

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An interview with Goa's top DJ Navin

The Ace DJ from Goa talks to PartySoulz about DJ-ing and more. Here’s DJ Navin Rodrigues

Antonio: Why did you choose DJ-ing as your career?

Navin: I can’t say that I ‘chose’ DJ-ing as a career. It came about just unexpectedly. I Got really inspired watching DJ’s play and entertain people. So when I went to nightclubs instead of dancing, I used to stand behind the DJ console and watch DJ’s do their thing and with tips from a few DJ-ing friends I picked up the skill. I really love my job and every night is a new challenge. Now I can’t think of anything else other den my music n DJ-ing!!

Antonio: Enlighten us about some of your best performances or which you think are your best and why?

Navin: I have been really lucky to play at some of the best nightclubs in Goa, Bombay, Bangalore and Manipal. My favourite gigs have always been in Goa because people really understand music here. My favourite night clubs where I can play my sound are Mambos n Butter Lounge!

Antonio: What is your advice to young and upcoming jockeys?

Navin: My advice to young and upcoming jockeys is if you think you got in you go for it. Don’t ever stop, let nothing pull you down. A lot of young kids think DJ-ing is fast money and fame. It’s a long struggle before you actually get there. Take part in DJ-ing competitions. That’s how u get spotted and a very important part of DJ-ing is to market yourself. You need to really stand out from the rest!

Antonio: What are your ultimate goals as a professional DJ?

Navin: My ultimate aim as professional DJ is to get into production and have other DJ’s play my records. And that shall happen very soon  as of now I am happy just DJ-ing.

Antonio: What are your comments about PartySoulz’s new venture eGoa?

Navin: First of all a big thank you for choosing me as the Goan of the week. Definitely a must visit for everyone. It has a lot of information about our beautiful Goa.

Interview by Antonio Furtado

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eGoa and PartySoulz cross-branding is enabled

Since my team is now focused on E-Goa, I can understand the concern from people who have been using PartySoulz.com blog to promote their events, we had anticipated this concern and already have the features of PartySoulz.com on eGoa, infact eGoa extends PartySoulz functions by miles.

Earlier users had to request an admin to get their events listed and promoted via PartySoulz.com, on eGoa a user can directly "create an event", when an event is created, the content is relayed as a blog post onto partysoulz.com and across it's social media network automatically, this is done using the concept of APIs, this automatic tech-driven integration between eGoa and PartySoulz allows both to function as independent brands and provides more exposure for event promoters.

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An interview with Aniket Warty

Egoa: Sir, please do tell us something about your Goan connections?.
Mr. Warty: Firstly there is a connection of descendant. My father was a Goan, although I was born in Maharashtra, I was closely in touch with the Goan culture at all times. Few months back I had a heart surgery. I was told not the fly (by air) for at least 3 months. So it meant boredom. Rather I thought why not set up a unit in Goa? It gave me a chance to come back to my roots and also there is a lot of hidden talent here. I just want to explore it.

Egoa: Who is your target audience?
Mr. Warty: Well, we have establishments all around the Globe right from Costa Rica to China. At present what we are doing is B2B marketing (i.e. Business to Business). Herein we actually lease our software and other products to other companies on revenue basis. It helps us earn a decent profit. Also, very soon we will be launching B2C (i.e. Business to Customer) approach very soon. Wherein, we will directly supply to the customers.

Egoa: What is the biggest threat to your business?
Mr. Warty: the worst is the cultural inhibitions of various countries. And as an added disadvantage are the unreal government policies. That is the biggest threat because we have no control on the government. In some countries online gaming is illegal but offline is legal and is some other countries it is vice versa.

Egoa: China is one of the biggest hubs for you. Is it true?
Mr. Warty: China has great human resource but the Government policies are stringent. There is a trade-off here. It is the leading manufacturing Country. So it is very much affordable in monetary terms. But, the Government policies are a hitch.

Egoa: Tell us a little about your products?..
Mr. Warty:
When the motive is to entertain, everything else takes a backseat. We build our software backwards. Sort of reverse engineering. When a group of professionals are pitted together, creativity has no limit. So our programmers, graphic designers and marketing geeks get together and spend a lot of time dreaming. And re-creating those dreams. It works for us, and will for our clients as well.
We won't say that our gaming software is the best on this planet, it will be. We constantly endeavor to better a previous effort. And our actions really speak louder. We'll let you be the judge.

Our products:
? Poker
? Omaha
? Stud Poker
? Casino
? Badugi
? Speed Hold'em
? Tournaments
? Flash game
? Fantasy sports
? Sports book
? Dominoes

Egoa: What is your USP?
Mr. Warty: Complete gaming platforms
Internationalization Support
Multiple skins
Scalability, Robustness, Fault Tolerance
Regression and game rule test suite
Advance Fraud and collusion detection algorithms

Courtesy: a talk by Mr. Warty at Adarsh Institute of Management
The excerpts have been picked up by: Nisha Bhatia

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An interview with Rajesh Kumar

Rajesh Kumar a 18 year old self-made magician sharing the secrets of his heart with egoa??

Egoa: Please tell us bout your magic. How you started? When? Is it your passion or career?

Magic is a art of illusion, It is about doing something that is impossible and close up magic or street magic is the hardest one. I was always passionate about magic. I once saw Criss Angel levitating in the air. It baffled me ,it bowled me over so i thought if he can do it why can't I? But due to my studies I never tried it. But one day I saw Ugesh Sarcar's third degree (on UTV Bindass) and my friends said it was awesome. Every body in my class talked about him. So i got an idea to become a hero in front of my peer group and I started doing magic. I started 1 year ago but I improved my magic in the last six months.

It is my passion and not my career. I am so passionate about it that I try to do magic every time and everywhere.

Egoa: Who is your inspiration and who is your guruji?

My inspiration is Criss Angel but the man who triggered me into magic is Ugesh Sarcar. I learn magic from every magician. I learn from their performances. However Criss Angel is like Drona to me. I have never met him but he is my guru and I try to do all his magic.

Egoa: What are your future plans?

I just want to vanish a elephant like Criss Angel. I know how it is done but I want to show it to everyone. I am trying to make my own tv show for the past two years but it hasn't worked yet.

Egoa: What is your connection with Goa? Would you like to hold a show in Goa?

My dad has been transferred to almost all states in this country. I lived in Goa for two years. Now I'm in Ludhiana but I admire Goa. Life is a show and this World is a stage and Goa is a beautiful part of this stage. So every artist wants to perform in such a beautiful place if I get a chance, I will definitely hold a show in Goa.

Egoa: Which is the most crazy thing you have done? Why you call that the most crazy among all your other tricks? Please attach video link here.

The most crazy thing I have done is levitating (flying in the air) and quick change. Levitating is something that is our own Indian art and which is against the law of physics.

Quick change when I have done this everybody was amazed because I changed 10 clothes within a blink of an eye. Here is a link of quick change:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZQY4dVh6Lk&feature=related

here is of levitating coke cap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzavgU2yHvE&feature=channel

Egoa: Wat is the wackiest comment you ever got from your audience?

The most wackiest comment was when my Physics Sir said that there must be some magnet in a playing card when i levitated it, I was amazed because nothing can levitate with the help of magnet. It is impossible. Here is a video link of card levitation

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5CQQrSeQIM&feature=channel_page

Egoa: Tell us more about your struggling days?.. Was it an easy job?

Life is a battle and one has to struggle throughout life so it doesn't matter to me. It is very difficult to do close up magic in India because it is not popular here and my mother is a typical Indian types, she always stops me from doing magic so I have problem in learning it and doing it. She used to say 'najar laga denge' and all that so I practiced magic hiding it from her.

Egoa: How you perceive this as a career opportunity in today's world?

Magic and especially close up magic has great scope as a career in today's world. People book big magicians for parties, shows, and for entertainment. Nowadays many TV shows have started in India also and I am sure new will come soon

Egoa: What role does media play in your field or rather in your life?

This is my first interview so thanks to you. Lets see how does it affect me?..

Egoa: What are your comments on www.egoa.in?

www.egoa.in is a great social networking site. It is fantastic. It appreciates new talent and praise talent. I was really happy to see this site because this site will also help Goa in tourism.

Thanks and God bless you.

The excerpts have been picked up by: Nisha Bhatia

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An interview with Akaansha Mattikop

This week eGOA caught up with an entrepreneur from Goa Akaansha ( Siddhi) Mattikop

EGoa: How it feels so to be a successful female entrepreneur in a man?s world?
Akaansha: Ummm to tell u frankly it doesn?t feel out of place. Men are great to work with and yes I don?t think in today?s world there is much a competition between men n women. There are a lot of women who have proved they are at par or even better than men. We just have to follow their example.

Egoa: A huge shift from expansion cellular to pepe jeans.Why?
Akaansha:Yes, a huge shift. A totally different step into the fashion world. Well, we were inclined to the ever changing fashion n always wanted to have a store. We got the opportunity so grabbed it. Well n are enjoying it.

Egoa: Please tell us about the other projects you have in hand
Akaansha:We are coming up with another garment store may be in one months time and are associated with a couple of networks.

I also have this internet business which anyone and everyone can do, its because the investment is very low and the returns are high.

It?s a business anyone can do right from a college student to a housewife n a senior person too.

Egoa:How u manage the competition?
Well, if u keep thinking about competition, it will lead u nowhere.

I don?t compete with anybody, instead I only try to improve my scores day by day. I only put in efforts n leave rest to god.

Egoa:What makes your store different from the rest?
Akaansha:Well, first thing is that Pepe is a leading international brand. Whatever designs that are crafted are all international, and the best part is they are crafted keeping in mind fashion and comfort. Pepe has got different fits which makes anyone feel great. It just aint for youth, it?s a brand which captures an age group of 14 to even 60.

Secondly, the personal touch works wonders. We see to it that our customers get personal attention. Knowing people n fitting them into fashionable clothes is something I?ve always loved. i cannot explain to u the joy I get when I see someone feel happy n content in well finished clothes.

Egoa: Who is your inspiration and motivation? How you manage family and business?
Akaansha:Like every man has a woman behind his success, I always have my husband Mr. Akassh on my every step. He?s my motivation, my inspiration, everything I can n will be able to achieve is because of him. Well, about managing family n business its only because of the support I have got from akassh n my parents, it is only due to them that I can do everything I do today.

Egoa: Your comments on eGoa?
Akaansha:Hey a wonderful website, which belongs to us goans. A great site which allows a stranger to connect easily to amchem goi.

The excerpts have been picked up by: Nisha Bhatia

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An Interview with AARTI R. NAYAK

Hailing from a rich musical family of Goa, Ms. Aarti R. Nayak is under tutelage in Hindustani Classical Vocal from her father, noted vocalist of Goa Pt. Ramrao Nayak. Endowed with a melodious voice spanning all the three octaves, she is known for pure and aesthetic presentation of ragas, taan patterns and command over laya. She is a 'Sangeet Alankar' (M.A – Music) of Akhil Bhartiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Mumbai wherein she stood 2nd in All India and was felicitated with an award for the same. She is a 'Sangeet Visharad' of Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, Mumbai. She has been Honored with the 'Giants International Award - 2008' in recognition for achieving highest standard of work in the field of music. She has been admired with the title 'SurMani' for the year 2008 by the Sur Singar Samsad, Mumbai. She has bagged the prestigious 'Vamandaji Puraskar' of Vasantrao Achrekar Pratishthan, Kankawli. She has to her credit the 'Best singer' award in Hindustani Classical Vocal at the National Youth Festival held at Trivendrum, Kerala.
She has received many accolades, prizes and scholarships from different organizations including Central Govt. scholarship by CCRT, Scholarship from the Ministry of culture – Delhi, Late D. L. Bhat smriti scholarship – ABGMV Mandal Miraj, Kalangan – Centre for performing arts - Goa, to name a few. The prestigious Award of All India Radio for Semi Classical Category (1999-2000) & for Light Music Category (2001-2002) is in her credit. She is an approved artiste of All India Radio.
As a hobby she has personified the lead female roles in Sangeet Nataks like Sangeet Saubhadra, Sharada, Yayati Devayani, Saunshay Kallol to name a few.

She is Awarded as a “Best Actress' in Marathi Sangeet Natak by Maharashtra Natya Mandal, Sangli-Maharashtra and other reputed organizations. She has given Playback for Screen Award winning Marathi Film 'Savali'. An approved artiste of All India Radio and Doordarshan, Aarti is a Post Graduate in Commerce.
Along with Khayal Gayki, she is equally at ease with a number of genres like Thumri, Dadra, Tappa, Hori, Bhajan, Natyageet . She has performed in a number of prestigious sammelans in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh.
A few major classical music concerts rendered are :
Youth Festival – Pune organized by the Sangeet Natak Academy.
'Surashree Kesarbai Kerkar Smriti Sangeet Samaroha', Goa
'Pt. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar Samaroha', Hyderabad.
'Sawaii Gandharva Festival', Kundgol
'Vasantrao Achrekar Smriti Sangeet Samaroha', Kanakawli
'Kalarang festival' organized by West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, Directorate of Art & Culture, Goa.
'Pt. Karhade Festival', Hyderabad.
Performed at the 17th All India National conference organized by Akhil Bhartiya Gandharva Mahavidyalay Mandal & Sangget Kala Manch, Belgaum.
Platinum Jubilee Celebration at Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, Vashi- Mumbai
'Nehru Centre', Worli Mumbai & 'Swara Sadhana Samiti' Girgao, Mumbai
'Girijatai kelkar Smriti Sangeet Samaroha' Goa
'Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki Smriti Sangeet Samaroha' organized by Tarangini Pratishthan.

The excerpts have been picked up by: Nisha Bhatia

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The motivation to launch E-Goa

In April I began a project soon after I got done with my final year BCA exams, I call it "E-Goa", I always wanted to build a social networking platform catered for Goa. I have bigger plans in the future so it's either now or never. People ask me Why? Well, Because I can! lol

On June 15 we will launch, we have the initial website up in beta mode and will go live at 2PM IST on egoa.co.in, egoa.in and e-goa.com to serve different global locations, a big thank you to all the devs and investors who made this possible.

The next order of business is to get a sales team to generate revenue to support the venture, here's a screen shot of the test mode version launched today.

Very Excited!

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An interview with MRS. SHAILA DEVARI

World Environment Day was on 5th June, and we had the privilege of talking to (Dr.) MRS. SHAILA DEVARI, A DOCTOR BY PROFESSION AND AN ENVIRONMENTALIST BY HEART, here's what she had to say

Here's what she had to say about the environment, the excerpts have been picked up by: Nisha Bhatia

What is your take on 'World Environment Day'?

Doc: I feel that the Environment issue is a very sensitive issue, it is not enough to dedicate a single day towards it and finish it thereby. We should celebrate our 'environment' every day.

Can you please elaborate on what you mean?

Doc: See my point here is that every individual should take at least one step in a day that shall better our environment. I sincerely thank those who don't waste cooking gas and electricity to heat water, the solar energy is a great option. You can make a difference just by walking up to the Municipality dustbin to discard your domestic garbage. This one deed serves two purposes- Primarily the garbage reaches the correct place from where the Government has to play its part. And the hidden benefit is if you walk that distance, you save that much fuel as compared to going by bike or car.

What you see as the biggest threat to Goan Environment?

Doc: People. The more the people, the more the pollution. Besides the increasing number of concrete houses and apartments are leading to a destruction of Goa's 'Green' life. All people must plant trees around their houses or on their terrace. Even ornamental plants in the living room shall improve the environmental situation.

Please tell us the ill-effects of non-environment friendly stuff on our body

Doc: Improper garbage disposal results in more flies, mosquitoes and several such creatures that result in spreading diseases such as malaria, typhoid, filarial, etc. also, the harmful chemicals that are used in the production of food grains have long term ill effects on the body. The body fails to extract its needful vitamins and minerals resulting in weaker systems and weaker bones.

Besides this, the contamination of water has got several ill effects. The industrial waste is dumped in wells, rivers, lakes and seas. Making that water unfit for any purpose. You can definitely not drink such water but also having bath in such water can cause you many types of skin diseases. Besides, the fish does not survive in such water, even if it manages to survive, it is contaminated and inedible.

Name any 4 things that can help us to save the Environment.

Doc:

1. Reduce the usage of cars and bikes, use public transport as far as possible.

2. Dump your domestic waste in proper place. Dump the bio-degradable waste around your house only. It serves as manure to your plants too.

3. Use solar alternatives such as water heater or domestic electricity equipment

4. Rain water harvesting

What are your comments on our website?

Doc: I'm really sorry but I am yet to visit this site I here it's new. But whatever I hear from you makes me feel that it's a wonderful site and a must visit for all Goans. I shall soon view the site and also tell everyone around me to visit it. Thank you so much for valuing my comments. I wish e-goa all the success in future.

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An interview with Tanveer Alam Shaikh

Tanveer Alam Shaikh is a 22 year old gentleman pursuing a career in Fitness Training. He is currently working with Maxsons Fitness Hub (Borda-Margao).

eGoa: Why did you choose this as your career:-

Tanveer: As a child I was always in and around fitness. I Played basketball for my school team (Loyola High School, Margao - Goa).I was always an underweight chap, so that led to me spending most of my time trying to make up for my weight by eating healthy. Then one day I found rhythm and sense in it. That very day I knew what I wanted to be in life, a Professional Fitness Trainer. Since the time a human comes to an existence and till d time he dies it's all about FITNESS! Since my very young age I was always around those who spread fitness awareness, and today I do it the professional way. One thing I like about my career is that you get to meet all sorts of people, people coming from different backgrounds, different employment sectors, and different business. Name the people and yes they are there.

People's lives are getting busier and hectic day by day. So busy, that they don't have time for themselves. In this process many neglect their fitness and down the line realize that they no longer are fit enough to do the task they usually used to do cause their fitness is no longer at its best. And this is where I come in the picture. My job is to guide such people in the right direction towards achieving their goals and once their goal is achieved there is this gratitude that person expresses a reward so priceless which makes me feel 'Yes I have made a difference in that persons' life by what I helped him achieve.' And this is what I like about my career and this is why I chose doing what I do the best.

eGoa: What are your future plans?

Tanveer: I am in the process of getting myself ACE certified. Well that's international certification for fitness training. And once I'm done with my certification, Gladrags 2010 Here I come!

eGoa: What do you think is the Importance of health and fitness?

Tanveer: Fitness is not just about having a fit healthy lean body with six packs on it, but it's also about ones mental well being.There's this old saying ‘health is wealth' trust me its Holy True. In today's life if a human being is not fit he or she is not a valid contender in this world. There was this wise aged man who once told me. 'Son! This world is all about survival of the toughest. It's all about competing and proving your physical and mental well being if you want to be on the top ofyour chain.' Football and cricket is in the air, these games are all about proving ones endurance, strength, and most of all mental well being. These people go through vigorous fitness training because there's no chance of error at their level. They say 'catches win matches.' And how are you supposed to give your optimum if you're not fit? Somewhere down the line all these slim actors and actress look and feel the best is because they really look into the matter when it's about their fitness. Staying fit helps you in many aspects of life. Your work life is much better and energetic then compared to the ones who don't believe in fitness. There are people I came across my life who had ended up in a misery by putting on excess weight or were crying to put on weight. Out of these people some were ones who didn't even try to resolve their matter, but what interested me were the ones who gave their best but still didn't succeed. People who feel that they are fat or skinny, who have fat and un proportionate bodies, who feel sad when they see themselves in the mirror, who have high B.P and sugar problems- 'Help awaits for you just beyond your efforts.' I as a fitness trainer guarantee you that there is a forever cure for such problems. All you need to do is ask. Ask the right people and you'll find the right solution to your problem. And for people who have already tried and yet didn't find a solution is the simple fact that somewhere down the line the path you've followed wasn't the right one for your objective. Progressing in your direction is one thing, but progressing in the ‘right direction' must be your priority, and how do you know that you're moving in the right direction is when you see results. All you need is the mantra of 3 D's - Devotion, Determination, and Dedication.

eGoa: What is the healthiest life style according to you?

Tanveer: I always believe that one should ‘eat like a king and work like a slave'. It's all about striking the balance. A wrong foot on either side can led to a disaster. Always eat right, plan your fitness priorities right, and most of all sleep right. In today's life people compromise on their sleeping hours but don't realize that when one is sleeping the body starts its repair process. Disrupting this process will lead to one having an un-healthy mental and physical life style. A healthy life style does not only keep you physically fit but it also keeps u mentally fit. From the very smallest tissue in our body to the largest of the bones everything in our body needs time to recover from that it has sustained trough out the day. And to be at your optimum body recovery one should at least sleep 7 hrs a day. Water is the next big issue. In all the hustle and bustle we forget that our body needs enough water. Just having water during our meals is not just enough.Our body requires about 12 glasses of water daily to perform general processes like re-hydrating, detoxifying, digestion, Etc. And with this burst of summer temperature god only knows how many of us just forget to re-hydrate ourselves. As long as it is concerns diets, it's always advisable to eat small good, highly nutritious, and healthy meals repeatedly about 5-6 small ones instead of having general three heavy meals a day. Another issue is green stuff on your plates. I'm talking about vegetables. Many of us especially non-vegetarians have the habit of skipping the intake of vegetables in our diet. Let me get to your notice that vegetables contain fibbers which is very essential for the digestion process. Excluding veggies will lead to un-balanced diet. I prefer having fresh green leafy vegetables along with the meal instead of the cooked ones as the process of cooking these veggies leads to depletion of its nutrients. Some of us have the habit of skipping the breakfast, which is really a bad habit. The word itself shows how important it is in our daily lives. The time we sleep is the only time when our body is going through the optimum recovery process, but in this process it at times exhausts its resources. The time we get up it is the time we should make sure that we replenish our body with its requirement generously in the right direction, because ultimately ‘you are what you eat.‘

eGoa: what's your advice to the Goan youth?

Tanveer: When it comes to fitness it's all about making it a part of your life. Fitness begins in your mind first and eventually shows up physically on you. It'll be tough keeping up with it but at the end of the day all you'll feel is that all the efforts made to keep yourself fit was worth it. Never lose hope is the moral of fitness. Summer is at its peak. Make sure that you re-hydrate yourself well enough throughout the day at least till dinner. Avoid all carbonated drinks specially the ones that are artificially flavoured. They led to wearing of bones. Instead, you could have water of tender coconut, or may be sugarcane juice. Curd is also used as a heat buster. For any health related inquire please send in your queries at (www.Maxansfitnesshub.com)

eGoa: do you have any comments on eGoa?

Tanveer: The best thing I like about this site is that at click of a button you have all the required information like news, reviews, what's in, what's out, what's hot and what's not and that too it's all about Goa. This web site gives out all the main and fun events that rock Goa. Hopefully this site will soon meet success!

The excerpts have been picked up by: Nisha Bhatia

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